SJU Writing Studies Fall 2026 Course Offerings

Mondays, 6:30-9:15 pm, Online/Synchronous 
ENG 550: The Practice of Writing 
Instructor: Dr. Melissa A. Goldthwaite 
CRN: 40417 
The Practice of Writing introduces students to the conventions of various genres and to skills and practices that they can use not only in the Writing Studies Program but also in careers related to writing, publishing, and teaching. Students will consider the work of various writers, write in at least three genres, provide feedback to peers, and practice revision and editing in the context of a classroom community. 

Tuesdays, 6:30-9:15 pm, Online/Synchronous 
ENG 624: Science Fiction in Literature and Film 
Instructor: Dr. Justin Everett  
CRN: 43188 
This course introduces students to the craft of writing science fiction and fantasy short stories. Students will learn the elements of the speculative fiction story and the unique publication cycle of the market. Students will write, revise, and polish two short stories over the course of the semester with the goal of getting those stories prepared for submission to paying markets such as Asimov's Science Fiction and Clarkesworld. The course will be taught in a workshop format.

Wednesdays 6:30-9:15 pm, Online/Synchronous 
ENG 669: Poetry Writing Workshop 
Instructor: Dr. April Lindner
CRN: 43194 
In this class, you will write a variety of types of poetry—sometimes in response to specific prompts. I expect you to be willing to take chances, experiment, keep a reading journal, listen and learn from constructive criticism, and to revise until you have produced a portfolio of publishable poems. You also will be reading work by a range of poets working in different styles to explore some of the major trends in contemporary poetry.